Understanding Braxton Hicks: how to manage false labor and prepare for birth

Pregnancy is a big change that comes with excitement, planning, and many feelings. This is especially true as the time for labor gets closer. A key part of the journey is knowing about false labor contractions, which we call Braxton Hicks contractions. Learning how to tell the difference between these contractions and real labor can help you feel less worried. This guide gives you all the important details about Braxton Hicks contractions. It explains what causes them, how to recognize them, and offers useful tips for managing them.

What Are False Labor Contractions?

Braxton Hicks Contractions Explained

Braxton Hicks contractions are often called practice contractions. They help the body prepare for labor. First-time mothers might feel nervous about them, but they are safe and a normal part of pregnancy. Unlike real labor contractions, Braxton Hicks are not strong enough to open the cervix or show that labor is beginning. Instead, they assist the uterus in getting ready for childbirth. They make the muscles stronger and boost blood flow to the placenta. Braxton Hicks contractions usually start in the second or third trimester. Some women feel them as early as six weeks into their pregnancy.¹ However, they are often easier to notice later on. People often say it feels like a tightening or hardening of the abdomen. It is like having mild menstrual cramps. For some women, it may feel uncomfortable, but for most, it does not hurt.

Why Do Braxton Hicks Contractions Occur?

Common Triggers of Braxton Hicks Contractions

Braxton Hicks contractions can occur for many reasons, but we don’t fully understand why. Here are a few things that may trigger them or make them feel stronger:

• Physical Activity: Being active—like exercising, lifting heavy items, or standing for a long period—can cause false labor contractions. If you mainly stand or walk, take breaks to rest.
• Sexual Activity: Sexual activities, including orgasm, can cause Braxton Hicks contractions. This happens because hormones like oxytocin are released. This leads to contractions in the uterus.
• Full Bladder: A full bladder can push on the uterus and cause contractions. Make sure to empty your bladder regularly to feel more at ease.
• Dehydration: Not drinking enough water is a big reason for Braxton Hicks contractions. If you are dehydrated, your muscles, including those in the uterus, may contract. Drinking enough water can help stop these contractions.
• Stress and Anxiety: Feeling stressed or anxious can start false labor contractions. Using relaxation methods and handling stress can help reduce how often this occurs.

Recognizing Braxton Hicks Contractions

Characteristics of Braxton Hicks Contractions

Understanding Braxton Hicks contractions can help you know the difference between them and real labor. Here are some important signs to see if you are having false labor contractions:

• Irregular Timing: Braxton Hicks contractions come at different times and do not follow a pattern. They usually go away by themselves.
• No Progression in Intensity: These false labor contractions do not get stronger. They can feel uncomfortable, but the feeling does not change.
• Localized Sensation: You feel Braxton Hicks in one spot in the abdomen, mainly at the front. They do not start in the back and move to the front like real labor contractions.
• No Cervical Changes: Braxton Hicks contractions do not make changes to the cervix. There is no dilation or thinning like in real labor.
• Eased by Movement: False labor contractions feel better or stop when you move, rest, or drink more water. True labor contractions keep going no matter what you do.

The Difference Between Braxton Hicks and True Labor Contractions

It can be tough to know if you are having Braxton Hicks contractions or real labor. This is especially true as your due date approaches. Here’s an easier way to understand the differences:

• Intensity and Pain: False labor contractions feel mild. They feel like a tightening of the uterus but are usually not very painful. True labor contractions start off light. Then, they become stronger and more painful as time goes on.
• Location: You feel false labor contractions mainly in the front of the abdomen. True labor contractions usually begin in the lower back and move towards the front. They feel like a wave.
• Timing and Frequency: False labor contractions happen at random times. They can last from a few seconds to a couple of minutes. True labor contractions happen at steady times and become closer together as they progress.
• Response to Activity: False labor contractions often stop when you change activities, rest, or drink water. True labor contractions continue no matter what, and they may feel stronger if you move.

Managing Braxton Hicks Contractions

Practical Tips for Relief

Braxton Hicks contractions are very normal when you are pregnant. They might feel a bit uncomfortable. Here are some tips to help you manage them and reduce how often they occur:

• Stay Hydrated: It’s important to drink enough water. Not drinking enough can lead to Braxton Hicks contractions. Try to drink water all day, especially if you feel more contractions.
• Rest or Change Positions: If you have been moving around a lot, take a break and sit down. If you’ve been sitting, try to get up and walk. Both resting and moving can make contractions feel less painful and happen less often.
• Take a Warm Bath: A warm bath can help relax your muscles and make uterine contractions feel better. Just be sure the water is not too hot, as that can be unsafe during pregnancy.
• Use Breathing Exercises: Deep breathing and relaxation techniques can help reduce stress and tension. This can make Braxton Hicks contractions feel easier. You might also want to try progressive muscle relaxation.
• Gentle Exercise: Doing prenatal yoga and light stretches can improve blood flow and reduce your chances of false labor contractions. Always talk to your healthcare provider before starting any exercise while pregnant.

When to Contact Your Healthcare Provider

Signs of True Labor

It is important to be cautious during pregnancy and labor. Contact your healthcare provider or midwife if you feel any of these or are unsure:

• Contractions can feel regular at first but become stronger over time.
• You may feel severe pain or have contractions that do not stop. If there is bleeding or a sudden flow of fluid from the vagina, it might mean that your water has broken.
• A decrease in how often the baby moves or a change in the baby's usual activity can be a cause for concern.
• Other signs to watch for include strong pressure or sudden changes in the frequency of contractions. If you are unsure about Braxton Hicks contractions or real labor, just contact your healthcare provider.

Preparing for Labor: Tips and Tools for Success

As your due date nears, preparing for labor involves more than just feeling Braxton Hicks contractions. Here are some other ways to help your body and mind get ready for childbirth:

• Prenatal Yoga and Pilates: Safe exercises like yoga and Pilates are good to do during pregnancy. They can strengthen your core, increase your flexibility, and help you relax. These exercises may also help with labor pain.
• Pregnancy Massage: A prenatal massage is helpful. It can ease tension, reduce back pain, and improve blood flow. Be sure to visit a skilled prenatal massage therapist.
• Kegel Exercises: Kegel exercises can make your pelvic floor muscles stronger. This helps reduce the chances of incontinence and supports your pelvic organs. It also readies your body for labor.
• Relaxation and Meditation Techniques: Use mindfulness, meditation, and breathing exercises to reduce stress and calm your mind. Techniques like guided imagery and progressive muscle relaxation can help you focus when it's time to give birth.
• Pregnancy Ball Exercises: A pregnancy or birthing ball can relieve pelvic pressure. It helps improve your posture and encourages a good position for the baby. Gentle movements like bouncing or rocking can make you feel more comfortable as labor gets closer.

Common Questions About Braxton Hicks Contractions

How Early Can Braxton Hicks Contractions Start?

Braxton Hicks contractions may start as early as six weeks into pregnancy.1 You might feel them more in the second or third trimester.

Can Braxton Hicks Contractions Hurt?

Braxton Hicks contractions usually feel uncomfortable but are not painful. If your contractions start to feel very painful, you should contact your healthcare provider. They can check for any other problems.

Do All Pregnant Women Experience Braxton Hicks Contractions?

Not all women feel Braxton Hicks contractions. Some might not feel them at all. Others may feel these contractions quite often.

Conclusion

Understanding and handling Braxton Hicks contractions is important for preparing for childbirth. If you can recognize the signs of false labor, practice relaxation techniques, and know when to seek medical help, you will feel more calm and confident about having your baby. Pregnancy is a unique journey that unfolds differently for everyone, and each step brings new experiences as you prepare for what's ahead.

DISCLAIMER This article is intended for educational purposes only, using publicly available information. It is not medical advice nor should it be used for the diagnosis, treatment, or prevention of disease. Please seek the advice of your physician or another licensed medical provider for any health questions or concerns. In the case of emergency, call 911.